Security alert ends in Co Antrim after viable device made safe

A security alert in the Ballyclare area has ended following a major public safety operation involving police and Ammunition Technical Officers.

Police confirmed they received a report of a suspicious object located outside a property in the Ballylagan Road area shortly after 9am on Sunday, 14 December.

Officers attended the scene and established a number of temporary cordons while the object was examined.

Detective Inspector Hanbidge said:

“Our officers attended the scene together with Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) who examined the device, which has been deemed viable.

“The device which has been made safe will now undergo further forensic examination after being removed from the scene.

“A number of temporary cordons in the area have been lifted – and occupants from a small number of properties that had to be evacuated as a precautionary measure, have been allowed to return home.

“We appreciate that people were out of their homes for most of Sunday as this public safety operation was carried out, and we thank people for their understanding and patience during this time.

“Our enquiries are ongoing, and we would appeal to anyone with any information to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 455 14/12/25.”

Police have confirmed that the cordons put in place as a precautionary measure have now been removed, allowing residents affected by the operation to return to their homes.

The PSNI has reiterated its appeal for information as enquiries continue. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 455 14/12/25.

Information can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.